Loire
The Loire region extends
from the central highlands of France along the Loire river to the Atlantic
Ocean near the city of Nantes. This region accounts for approximately
12% of France's wine production.
With a region this large,
the climate conditions can vary considerably, with a damp and mild climate
at the mouth of the river, to a more continental climate pattern further
inland. The soil also varies, with chalk and clay being predominant.
Grapes have been grown in
the Loire valley as early as 380 A.D. By the twelfth century, the vineyards
had been widely developed thanks to the efforts of the monastaries of
the region.
The main grapes grown in
the region are Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Muscadet, and Cabernet
Franc. The wines produced range from simple crisp Muscadets to rich,
sweet Vouvrays; from plain table wines to fresh, light sparkling wines.
